If any two people deserved an island for a gift, those two would be my aunt and uncle. They, so graciously, have opened up their home to me as I stay til 2:00 AM on campus with rehearsals, homework, and paperwork.
As I stated before and what most know by now, is that my usual commute from my house can take anywhere from one-and-a-half to two hours long. That commute takes a toll when rehearsals start. The commute plays an effect as to whether what activities I'll try and be involved in besides from theatre, and it's not many if any.
This commute is no stranger to me or any of my fellow cast and crew members. But it does not get any easier.
There are times where I need to take a step back and realize that I can't handle it on some nights or I will risk falling asleep at the wheel.
Then, my aunt and uncle came to my rescue.
Their house used to feel like a stranger's house. I never really visited it much growing up, at least, not like I did with my grandmother's house. It was odd that first night, driving to their house instead of my grandmother's one. It was odd not sleeping in the bed that upstairs or not seeing familiar lamps that were usually on for the night.
But their house quickly became like a second home. A second home that I was missing so desperately.
Their house became the light at the end of the tunnel. It became my safe place as it welcomed me in from the harsh cold nights or the long tolling hours of rehearsal.
Their house became a stop along the way towards success. Not many people out there would come through they way they have for me. I try to buy baked goods for them as a small little way to say thank you but they deserve more, much more.
That brings me here, saying thank you the best way I know possible: through words. Thank you for opening up your home to me.
It means more than either one of you will ever know. If it were not for my aunt and uncle, I honestly wouldn't have the slightest idea on how I would survive rehearsals. It's thanks to them that I have a chance at doing what I love in this theatre department.
